The Boston Red Sox are looking to shake things up as they aim to secure their first series win of the 2026 season this afternoon against the Milwaukee Brewers. Manager Alex Cora has made a notable lineup adjustment for the rubber match at Fenway Park, signaling a clear intent to spark the offense.

In a significant move, infielder Andruw Monasterio will bat second in just his second start of the year. This prominent spot in the order, nestled between Roman Anthony and Willson Contreras, is a major vote of confidence. Monasterio, who was acquired from Milwaukee in an offseason trade, has a solid .273/.360/.477 slash line against left-handed pitchers from last season. He'll be facing Brewers' lefty Shane Drohan, who is making his MLB debut against his former organization.

This shift creates a domino effect in the lineup. Trevor Story gets a day off from shortstop duties amid early-season struggles, with Monasterio taking his place in the field. Furthermore, the slumping Jarren Duran will sit for the second time in three days, as the Red Sox look to find the right combination to jumpstart their bats against a divisional rival.

On the mound, veteran Sonny Gray gets the start for Boston. He'll face a Brewers lineup that is missing key pieces, with catcher William Contreras getting a scheduled day off and infielder Brice Turang sidelined with an ankle injury. With first pitch set for 1:35 p.m. ET, all eyes will be on Cora's new-look lineup to see if this strategic change can deliver a crucial series victory at home.